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Cleopatra Caldwell
This is an introductory course on social determinants of population health with a focus on the United States. The course will introduce you to, or reinforce your knowledge of, issues related to health that consider behavioral, psychological and structural factors in population health beyond the healthcare system. We will examine social, economic, and political factors that contribute to health inequalities and suggest innovative ways to reduce disparities in health when the goal is to achieve health equity.
Read more
This is an introductory course on social determinants of population health with a focus on the United States. The course will introduce you to, or reinforce your knowledge of, issues related to health that consider behavioral, psychological and structural factors in population health beyond the healthcare system. We will examine social, economic, and political factors that contribute to health inequalities and suggest innovative ways to reduce disparities in health when the goal is to achieve health equity.
Read more
This is an introductory course on social determinants of population health with a focus on the United States. The course will introduce you to, or reinforce your knowledge of, issues related to health that consider behavioral, psychological and structural factors in population health beyond the healthcare system. We will examine social, economic, and political factors that contribute to health inequalities and suggest innovative ways to reduce disparities in health when the goal is to achieve health equity.
This course will increase your awareness, knowledge, and understanding of issues related to behavioral, psychological, and structural factors that contribute to understanding population health and health inequities. We will discuss conceptual and methodological issues key to health professionals working towards achieving health equity to reduce health disparities at multiple levels of influence. There will be opportunities to practice skills involving cultural humility, deliberative dialogues and professional self-assessments.
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
Discuss the means by which structural bias, social inequalities and racism undermine health and create challenges to achieving health equity at organizational, community and societal levels
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/0hx57j/social
What's inside
Syllabus
Course Overview, Definitions, and Levels of Influence
In this module, we introduce the concepts of health disparities and health equity, and we examine the historical factors that led to the health disparities we see today.
Read more
Syllabus
Course Overview, Definitions, and Levels of Influence
In this module, we introduce the concepts of health disparities and health equity, and we examine the historical factors that led to the health disparities we see today.
Read more
Disparities in Mortality and Morbidity by Psychosocial and Demographic Factors, Theoretical Considerations, and Environmental and Cultural Contexts
In this module we describe three conceptual frameworks and we examine how they can be usefully applied to understand disparities in mortality and morbidity and to achieve health equity.
Social Determinants of Health: The Healthcare System, Immigration Status, Sexual Identity, and Unconscious Bias
In this module we apply the social determinants of health framework to the healthcare system, immigration status, and sexual identity, paying special attention to unconscious bias.
Racism, Discrimination; Culture, Gender and Power; Changing Structures that Reproduce Bias and Harm Health
In this module we dive deeper into racism and discrimination, as well as culture, gender and power, and we examine how we can achieve health equity by changing the structures that reproduce bias and harm health.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Increases awareness and understanding of population health and health inequities
Provides a comprehensive overview of the social and structural factors that contribute to health disparities
Develops critical thinking and problem-solving skills for addressing health disparities
Offers opportunities to practice skills in cultural humility, deliberative dialogues, and professional self-assessments
Taught by experienced instructors with expertise in population health and social determinants of health
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Save Social Determinants of Health to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Reviews summary
Sdh: well-received course
Learners say the Social Determinants of Health course offers engaging assignments and recent resources. Many say Professor Caldwell explains concepts in a clear, easy-to-understand manner, making them accessible even to non-native English speakers. While one learner expresses a concern about peer review completion, overall the course is largely positive with most learners expressing being satisfied with the course.
The course provides learners with up-to-date information.
"and the very recent resources offered in this course."
Learners praise engaging assignments.
"This was a really interesting course. I loved every minute of it."
"I learned a lot of SDOH, who apply it in my currently job.."
Professor Caldwell's instruction is clear and easy to follow.
"Excellent and highly accessible. Loved Prof. Caldwell's teaching"
"she explained so easy and pause when she talked."
Getting peer review work finished can be a challenge.
"There are not enough learners enrolling to get peer-reviewed work finished."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Social Determinants of Health with these
activities:
Review CDC Social Determinants of Health web page
Show steps
Become familiar with the foundational concepts and key terms used in this course.
Browse courses on
Social Determinants of Health
Show steps
-
Navigate to the CDC Social Determinants of Health web page.
-
Review the introduction and key concepts section.
-
Explore the resources and links provided on the page.
Explore OpenStax Sociology
Show steps
Supplement your understanding of the social factors that influence health by exploring OpenStax Sociology.
Browse courses on
Sociology
Show steps
-
Visit the OpenStax Sociology website.
-
Review the table of contents and identify relevant chapters.
-
Read and take notes on the selected chapters.
Attend a virtual study group
Show steps
Engage with peers, share perspectives, and deepen your understanding of course concepts through discussions.
Show steps
-
Find a study group or create your own.
-
Meet regularly to discuss course materials.
-
Share notes, insights, and questions.
-
Collaborate on assignments and projects.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Compile a list of resources on social determinants of health
Show steps
Expand your knowledge and stay updated by compiling a curated list of resources on social determinants of health.
Browse courses on
Social Determinants of Health
Show steps
-
Search for reputable sources on social determinants of health.
-
Identify and select relevant articles, websites, and organizations.
-
Organize the resources by topic or category.
-
Share your compilation with others.
Explore the WHO Health Equity Monitor
Show steps
Gain a global perspective on health inequities by exploring the WHO Health Equity Monitor.
Show steps
-
Visit the WHO Health Equity Monitor website.
-
Explore the interactive data visualizations.
-
Read the reports and policy briefs.
-
Identify key findings and trends.
Write a blog post on a social determinant of health
Show steps
Solidify your understanding of a specific social determinant of health by writing a blog post about it.
Browse courses on
Blogging
Show steps
-
Choose a specific social determinant of health.
-
Research the topic and gather evidence.
-
Write a clear and concise blog post that presents your findings.
-
Proofread your post and share it with others.
Read 'The Health Gap' by Michael Marmot
Show steps
Gain a deeper understanding of the social determinants of health inequities by reading 'The Health Gap'.
View
The Health Gap: The Challenge of an Unequal...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Obtain a copy of 'The Health Gap'.
-
Read the book and take notes.
-
Reflect on the author's arguments and evidence.
-
Identify key takeaways and implications for your own practice.
Host a virtual discussion on health disparity
Show steps
Facilitate a discussion on health disparities to delve deeper into the topic and engage with others.
Browse courses on
Social Determinants of Health
Show steps
-
Choose a specific aspect of health disparity to focus on.
-
Prepare discussion questions and materials.
-
Invite peers or community members to participate.
-
Moderate the discussion, ensuring diverse perspectives are heard.
Review CDC Social Determinants of Health web page
Show steps
Become familiar with the foundational concepts and key terms used in this course.
Browse courses on
Social Determinants of Health
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Navigate to the CDC Social Determinants of Health web page.
- Review the introduction and key concepts section.
- Explore the resources and links provided on the page.
Explore OpenStax Sociology
Show steps
Supplement your understanding of the social factors that influence health by exploring OpenStax Sociology.
Browse courses on
Sociology
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Visit the OpenStax Sociology website.
- Review the table of contents and identify relevant chapters.
- Read and take notes on the selected chapters.
Attend a virtual study group
Show steps
Engage with peers, share perspectives, and deepen your understanding of course concepts through discussions.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a study group or create your own.
- Meet regularly to discuss course materials.
- Share notes, insights, and questions.
- Collaborate on assignments and projects.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Compile a list of resources on social determinants of health
Show steps
Expand your knowledge and stay updated by compiling a curated list of resources on social determinants of health.
Browse courses on
Social Determinants of Health
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for reputable sources on social determinants of health.
- Identify and select relevant articles, websites, and organizations.
- Organize the resources by topic or category.
- Share your compilation with others.
Explore the WHO Health Equity Monitor
Show steps
Gain a global perspective on health inequities by exploring the WHO Health Equity Monitor.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Visit the WHO Health Equity Monitor website.
- Explore the interactive data visualizations.
- Read the reports and policy briefs.
- Identify key findings and trends.
Write a blog post on a social determinant of health
Show steps
Solidify your understanding of a specific social determinant of health by writing a blog post about it.
Browse courses on
Blogging
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a specific social determinant of health.
- Research the topic and gather evidence.
- Write a clear and concise blog post that presents your findings.
- Proofread your post and share it with others.
Read 'The Health Gap' by Michael Marmot
Show steps
Gain a deeper understanding of the social determinants of health inequities by reading 'The Health Gap'.
View
The Health Gap: The Challenge of an Unequal...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Obtain a copy of 'The Health Gap'.
- Read the book and take notes.
- Reflect on the author's arguments and evidence.
- Identify key takeaways and implications for your own practice.
Host a virtual discussion on health disparity
Show steps
Facilitate a discussion on health disparities to delve deeper into the topic and engage with others.
Browse courses on
Social Determinants of Health
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a specific aspect of health disparity to focus on.
- Prepare discussion questions and materials.
- Invite peers or community members to participate.
- Moderate the discussion, ensuring diverse perspectives are heard.
Career center
Learners who complete Social Determinants of Health will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Community Health Educator
Community Health Educator
Community Health Educators develop, implement, and evaluate health education programs. They work with individuals, groups, and communities to promote healthy lifestyles and prevent disease. This course can help prepare you for this role by providing you with a strong foundation in the social determinants of health. You will learn about the factors that contribute to health disparities and how to develop interventions to address them. This knowledge will be essential for your work in promoting health equity and improving the health of communities.
Health Policy Analyst
Health Policy Analyst
Health Policy Analysts research and analyze health policy issues. They make recommendations to policymakers on how to improve the health of the public. This course can help prepare you for this role by providing you with a strong understanding of the social determinants of health. You will learn about the factors that contribute to health disparities and how to develop policies to address them. This knowledge will be essential for your work in improving the health of the public.
Public Health Nurse
Public Health Nurse
Public Health Nurses work with individuals, families, and communities to promote health and prevent disease. They provide a variety of services, including health screenings, immunizations, and counseling. This course can help prepare you for this role by providing you with a strong foundation in the social determinants of health. You will learn about the factors that contribute to health disparities and how to address them in your work. This knowledge will be essential for your work in improving the health of communities.
Social Worker
Social Worker
Social Workers help people cope with social and emotional problems. They provide a variety of services, including counseling, case management, and advocacy. This course can help prepare you for this role by providing you with a strong understanding of the social determinants of health. You will learn about the factors that contribute to health disparities and how to address them in your work. This knowledge will be essential for your work in helping people improve their health and well-being.
Health Promotion Specialist
Health Promotion Specialist
Health Promotion Specialists plan and implement health promotion programs. They work with individuals, groups, and communities to promote healthy lifestyles and prevent disease. This course can help prepare you for this role by providing you with a strong foundation in the social determinants of health. You will learn about the factors that contribute to health disparities and how to develop interventions to address them. This knowledge will be essential for your work in promoting health equity and improving the health of communities.
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologists investigate the causes of disease and other health problems. They use this information to develop and implement public health programs to prevent and control disease. This course can help prepare you for this role by providing you with a strong foundation in the social determinants of health. You will learn about the factors that contribute to health disparities and how to address them in your work. This knowledge will be essential for your work in improving the health of the public.
Healthcare Administrator
Healthcare Administrator
Healthcare Administrators plan, organize, and direct the operations of healthcare organizations. They work to improve the quality and efficiency of healthcare services. This course can help prepare you for this role by providing you with a strong understanding of the social determinants of health. You will learn about the factors that contribute to health disparities and how to address them in your work. This knowledge will be essential for your work in improving the health of the public.
Public Health Educator
Public Health Educator
Public Health Educators develop and implement health education programs. They work with individuals, groups, and communities to promote healthy lifestyles and prevent disease. This course can help prepare you for this role by providing you with a strong foundation in the social determinants of health. You will learn about the factors that contribute to health disparities and how to develop interventions to address them. This knowledge will be essential for your work in promoting health equity and improving the health of communities.
Health Equity Advocate
Health Equity Advocate
Health Equity Advocates work to eliminate health disparities and promote health equity for all. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including policymakers, healthcare providers, and community members, to develop and implement policies and programs to address the social determinants of health. This course can help prepare you for this role by providing you with a strong foundation in the social determinants of health. You will learn about the factors that contribute to health disparities and how to develop interventions to address them. This knowledge will be essential for your work in promoting health equity and improving the health of communities.
Medical Anthropologist
Medical Anthropologist
Medical Anthropologists study the relationship between culture and health. They use this knowledge to improve the health of populations. This course can help prepare you for this role by providing you with a strong foundation in the social determinants of health. You will learn about the factors that contribute to health disparities and how to address them in your work. This knowledge will be essential for your work in improving the health of populations.
Sociologist
Sociologist
Sociologists study the social factors that affect human behavior. They use this knowledge to develop and implement policies and programs to improve the lives of individuals and communities. This course can help prepare you for this role by providing you with a strong foundation in the social determinants of health. You will learn about the factors that contribute to health disparities and how to address them in your work. This knowledge will be essential for your work in improving the health of communities.
Urban Planner
Urban Planner
Urban Planners design and implement plans for the development of cities and towns. They work to create healthy, sustainable, and equitable communities. This course can help prepare you for this role by providing you with a strong foundation in the social determinants of health. You will learn about the factors that contribute to health disparities and how to address them in your work. This knowledge will be essential for your work in creating healthy and equitable communities.
Nonprofit Manager
Nonprofit Manager
Nonprofit Managers plan and direct the operations of nonprofit organizations. They work to achieve the organization's mission and goals. This course may be useful for preparing you for this role by providing you with a strong understanding of the social determinants of health. You will learn about the factors that contribute to health disparities and how to address them in your work. This knowledge may be helpful for you in developing and implementing programs and services to improve the health of communities.
Program Manager
Program Manager
Program Managers plan and implement programs and services. They work to achieve the goals and objectives of the program. This course may be useful for preparing you for this role by providing you with a strong understanding of the social determinants of health. You will learn about the factors that contribute to health disparities and how to address them in your work. This knowledge may be helpful for you in developing and implementing programs and services to improve the health of communities.
Policy Analyst
Policy Analyst
Policy Analysts research and analyze public policies. They make recommendations to policymakers on how to improve the lives of individuals and communities. This course may be useful for preparing you for this role by providing you with a strong understanding of the social determinants of health. You will learn about the factors that contribute to health disparities and how to address them in your work. This knowledge may be helpful for you in developing and analyzing policies to improve the health of communities.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/0hx57j/social
Reading list
We've selected 12 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Social Determinants of Health .
This great overview of the social determinants of health, focusing on the United States.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the social determinants of health from theoretical, methodological, and policy perspectives. It would serve well as a textbook or resource for anyone interested in better understanding the social determinants of health.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the ways in which structural racism contributes to health inequities. It is an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the role of racism in health and developing strategies to dismantle it.
Provides a detailed plan for a universal health insurance plan for the United States. It would be a valuable resource for anyone interested in health policy and reform.
Brings together seminal pieces on health equity from a range of perspectives. It would be a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the history, theory, and practice of health equity.
Provides a historical overview of the health status of Native Americans in the United States. It would be a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the health disparities faced by this population.
Save
Provides a detailed plan for achieving universal health insurance in the United States. It would be a valuable resource for anyone interested in health policy and reform.
Provides a comprehensive history of the U.S. health care system. It would be a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the evolution of the health care system and the challenges it faces today.
Provides a comprehensive overview of health disparities in the United States, with a focus on the role of social and economic factors.
Tells the story of a Hmong family's experience with the American healthcare system. It provides a powerful example of how cultural differences can lead to misunderstandings and conflict in healthcare settings.
Provides an overview of the economic determinants of health, with a focus on the role of income inequality and poverty.
Save
Provides a global perspective on the health gap between rich and poor countries. It examines the social, economic, and political factors that contribute to this gap.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/0hx57j/social
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Effort
4 weeks of study, 6-8 hours/week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Michigan
Instructor
Cleopatra Caldwell
Language
English
Transcripts
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Français
Português
Deutsch
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中文
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This course belongs to a
collection
called
The Influence of Social Determinants on Health. It's comprised of three courses:
- Social Determinants of Health (viewing)
- The Influence of Social Context on Health
- Assessing and Improving Community Health
Good to know
Increases awareness and understanding of population health and health inequities
Provides a comprehensive overview of the social and structural factors that contribute to health disparities
Develops critical thinking and problem-solving skills for addressing health disparities
Offers opportunities to practice skills in cultural humility, deliberative dialogues, and professional self-assessments
Taught by experienced instructors with expertise in population health and social determinants of health
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